Trying to decide between Park City versus Aspen for your next trip? We’ve got the guide for you!
That’s the too-quick, oversimplified rundown. Really, these are two heavyweights in the world of mountain towns and they both have so much to offer.
Whether you’re hitting the winter ski slopes or getting out in the summer sun, we’re confident that this comprehensive comparison will give you everything you need to make the right choice for your own preferences.
Park City was home to the Winter Olympic Games in 2022 and is currently the main base for the United States Ski Team. But long before it became famous for it’s terrain parks and incredible groomed runs, it was settled by early Mormon pioneers. It quickly boomed with silver miners, but by 1950 the town needed an upgrade. And so began their ski tourism venture which draws tourists from all over the country.
Year-Round
Best Village & Lifestyle: Draw

While Park City and Aspen have different looks and feels throughout their Main Street and Downtown areas, they are both easily accessible, walkable and fun. The overall vibe of the town will make the biggest difference between each.
Park City is only a 35 minute drive from the Salt Lake City International Airport, which makes this an extremely convenient vacation spot. It’s filled with award-winning restaurants, free transportation, and loads of activity with mountain areas that offer four-season availability.
Park City is actually a great comparison to Aspen because it also encompasses multiple ski areas and base villages. Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons Resort are both connected by a long string of gondola systems, allowing you to ski both areas and choose your main base. Down the road lies Deer Valley Resort, which is the most upscale of the three and offers the largest variety of luxury restaurants and accommodations, along with a more exclusive ski experience.

Even though Park City isn’t an inexpensive vacation (especially the Deer Valley area), it does have a better price point for more travelers than Aspen will on average. This goes for everything across the board from lodging to transport, lift tickets and dining.
To get a good feel for what the town is like, picture beautiful 19th century Western architecture with vibrant downtown life and many different boutiques alongside factory stores for ski apparel and other well-known brands. The nightlife is pretty relaxed but lively, inviting both travelers and locals to revel in live entertainment or spend a cozy evening sipping local brews.

Aspen is definitely considered to be on the ritzier end of the two towns. The beautiful accommodations, excellent restaurants, and stunning alpine views have drawn a wealthier demographic for decades. Aspen is a collection of four different mountain ski areas (Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass) with two main base areas in Aspen and Snowmass Village.
Aspen has it’s own small airport near the town called Pitkin County Airport, which is only 10-20 minutes away depending on which area of Aspen you’re staying in. Using this airport may be a little pricier, but can be worth the time you’ll save driving. Most people fly into Denver when skiing Colorado which results in a 4 hour drive to Aspen.

Aspen as a whole prides itself on offering many cultural experiences for residents and guests alike, so the different museums and theaters are highly recommended for a day off the slopes. We highly suggest you include the Aspen Music Festival and School, Red Brick Center for the Arts, and local live music at concert halls like Belly Up in your vacation plans.
The Roaring Fork River flows around Aspen’s outer edge and gives access to fishers and hikers all year long. Aspen’s walkable downtown area also has scenic mountain views with lots of high-end shopping opportunities. In addition to downtown, guests can easily shuttle or drive to the family-friendly Snowmass Village is located eight miles away.
We think it’s pretty safe to say that any first-time visitor to Park City will find it to be very high-end compared to just about any ski town. However, Aspen is on another level. Some may find Aspen’s lavishness a little too pretentious, while others will be starstruck by its glamor.
P.S. – If you’re looking for a more casual, bustling environment, check out our comparison of Breckenridge vs Park City. Breck could be another good option if you end up thinking Aspen isn’t the right fit.
Best Accommodations: Draw

Park City has a lot of different kinds of accommodations to choose from in their three main base areas. Accommodations along or near Park City’s Main Street will put you right in the center of the action so you can easily walk to bars, shops and restaurants, while accommodations in the Deer Valley Village will place you near sophisticated hotel lobby bars and upscale dining.
Stein Eriksen Lodge is one such accommodation in the Deer Valley Resort that has a great history along with beautiful lodging. It’s a ski-in/ski-out resort and features several different dining options and stores inside it’s main building. The Lodge is designed in a picturesque European alpine style and every aspect of the hotel is luxurious. Pricing is anywhere between $500-$1500 per night, depending on the time and season.
Hyatt Centric is a condominium hotel in Canyons Village. It’s a short drive away from Park City’s Main Street, but it will grant you ski-in/ski-out access to the Canyons Resort. Hyatt Centric is typical of Hyatt’s luxury brand hotels and includes a range of amenities, including pet-friendly rooms, a fitness center, pool and business center. Pricing will typically be upwards of $650 per night during ski season, and around $350 during slow season, making this a more affordable option.
Main & Sky is a boutique hotel on Park City’s Main Street that puts vacationers right in the center of it all. It’s not connected to the mountain, but skiers can take advantage of the Town Lift that transports skiers from downtown to the West end of Park City Mountain. Rooms have delightful views of the mountain range and amenities include a pool, spa and the Courchevel Restaurant. Pricing will range from $350 – $500 per night on average.

Aspen has kept some of it’s deep mining roots despite it’s upscale approach to vacationing. You’ll find a unique combination of Western architecture, exquisite stone houses and mountain chalets collected in this small town. But for the most part, expect for pricing to be higher on average than what you’ll find in Park City.
We place Aspen Alps Lodging at the top of our list for it’s convenient location in the heart of Aspen. Situated at the base of Aspen Mountain, guests will enjoy a short walk from the ski slopes and gondolas. Aspen Alps is a deluxe hotel with many upscale amenities, like daily housekeeping and even personal shopping. Nightly rates will begin around $550 in slower seasons, and obviously go much higher through the ski season.
The Gant is another great choice. It’s located in Downtown Aspen and liked for it’s ski-in/ski-out access, wood-burning fireplaces, private balconies and heated pool and spa. Pricing starts around $800 per night during ski season. Complimentary shuttles to Pitkin County Airport and into town are a great perk when staying at the Gant. Pepperjack’s Cafe is a favorite for casual food and a great apres ski environment.
Snowmass Village can have a cozier feel and slightly more favorable pricing. We highly recommend looking into their rentals and condominiums if you choose to stay in this area. Crestwood, Stonebridge, and Timberline Condominiums are highly rated by guests and offer ski in/ski out accommodations with amenities like private entrances and balconies, full kitchens and gas fireplaces.
Winter
Best Snow: Draw

Aspen tends to have a higher average snowfall than Park City over all, or perhaps a more favorable snowfall each season. Averages are around 348″ every year across all ski terrain, including Aspen Mountain, Highlands and Buttermilk. Aspen is also able to cover up to 650 acres with it’s snow machines which span all four mountain areas.
Park City gets approximately 355″ of snowfall each year, resulting in a 48-55″ snowpack on the mountain that lasts all season long. Park City can generate 500 acres of snow across its 341 runs, and while it doesn’t quite match the capabilities at Aspen, the sheer magnitude of Park City will ensure you don’t feel stuck to one small area.
Best Terrain: Park City

Park City is the largest ski resort in North America with 7,300 acres of skiable terrain. Nearly half of the runs are blue, so intermediate skiers will have an incredible time traversing this terrain. However, there are 3,200 feet of vertical drop, 13 bowls and 8 terrain parks that experts will thoroughly enjoy. Summit elevation of 10,026″ off the Wasatch Back of the Rocky Mountains makes for excellent the snow conditions and the seemingly unlimited terrain makes this area a great choice for all skier levels.
Park City is best known for it’s expansive terrain with varying levels of runs with nearly half of them geared toward advanced skiers. There’s a variety of snowshoeing and cross country skiing that intertwine with the groomers, as well. Some of the runs are even open for nighttime skiing. But perhaps the most fun part for expert skiers are the terrain parks. There are three of them that include half pipes, jumps, boxes, rollers and berm turns, and one even has a rail garden.
Canyons Resort is a little smaller than Park City, but spans nine peaks. It’s also connected to Park City via the Silverlode Gondola system, creating one huge Park City Mountain area. The Canyons are pretty horizontally spread, but feature lots of steep verticals and beautiful glade areas. There is significantly more expert terrain and decent terrain parks than there are beginner trails, so keep this in mind.
Deer Valley Resort is unique in that it only allows skiers on the mountain. This is welcome news to avid skiers who want to enjoy decent runs without bald patches caused by novice snowboarders. The resort is set on six different mountain peaks and has a very even amount of runs designed for beginners, intermediate and advanced skiers. The resort itself is stunning and has some of the most well-kept runs of the three Park City ski areas.
Long story short- if you visit Park City, you arguably have more terrain options than any other location in the USA. 7,300 skiable acres at Park City Mountain Resort and another 2,026 acres at Deer Valley makes for a smorgasbord of terrain.
It’s also worth noting that Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley have very good snow making capabilities. Last time we visited Park City (an early-season December trip), Deer Valley was especially strong in the snow-blowing, so we adjusted to spend more time there.

Aspen, as we mentioned before, has four ski areas: Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. Each of these is set at different points along the Elk Mountain Richmond Range and have varying experiences to offer. The mountains are not connected by gondola or ski lift, so it’s best for guests to choose one mountain per day based on their ability level or comfort zone. Despite the distance here, all mountains operate under one ski pass.
Aspen as a whole has 5,300 acres of skiable terrain with an elevation of 12,510′. Aspen Mountain is an expert’s dream with plenty of black diamond runs just above the resort – some feature rocky trails, tree chutes and cliffs. There are also plenty of intermediate runs along Ruthie’s Lift and Ajax Express, but experts will have the best time on Aspen Mountain.
For more friendly terrain, Buttermilk is tailor made for those who need more practice. It’s got many tame greens and plenty of blue runs for intermediate skiers. Most of the runs are more geared towards novices, but elite skiers can still find fun at several terrain parks and pipes used for the Winter X Games.
Aspen Highlands is most well-known for its Highlands Bowl which is strictly for experts. These incredible backcountry areas with steep trails and drops offer a full day of fun with a beautiful view of Maroon Bells. Intermediate skiers can have a great time on the middle to lower part of the mountain, which features a steep bowl, mogul runs and slightly easier trails.
Snowmass is the largest mountain area with a whopping 3,300 acres and an elevation of over 8,000′. The resort is constructed with all levels of skiers and snowboarders in mind, but is most highly recommended for beginners or casual skiers. The expert terrain here is considered more accessible, so those who are just getting comfortable with steep runs can muster the courage to try them.
It’s not a copout to say that, no matter your level of ski ability, you’re not going to be disappointed with either Park City or Aspen. Being that it’s absolutely massive, Park City obviously provides even more varied terrain, but Aspen is no slouch.
Best for Beginners: Aspen

While Aspen is an expert’s paradise, two mountains stand out for families or younger skiers who need more practice. Beginners should look to Buttermilk since 35% of the runs are green, though there are only 470 acres of skiable areas. If you want more areas to practice, Snowmass has approximately 15 green runs that are crafted for repeatable exercises.
Ski lessons at Aspen resort will cost about $200-$300 for children and up to $400 for adults depending on the length of time required for learning and peak vs slow season. Private lessons will go for about $567 for a full day at Buttermilk.
Snowmass also offers adaptive clinics, as well as special camps and classes built for different age groups or ability levels. You can search these before your trip to see what’s available during your stay.

Park City Mountain has only 8% of its runs considered green and appropriate for beginners, so Park City is probably not going to be the top choice for young children or adults who are just starting out. The best resort for beginners in Park City is going to be Deer Valley Resort, since it has approximately 30% green runs on the mountain.
Deer Valley Ski School has a large variety of ski classes geared toward specific age groups, with the youngest being three years old. These lessons can last a half day or full day and begin around $280 plus a $40 lift ticket. The classes are shaped toward the age and ability level of the skiers, especially if you select private lessons for your trip. These one-on-one sessions will pair you with one of Deer Valley’s expert teachers who can guide you through special techniques and skills.
Best Apres Ski & Nightlife: Draw

Park City is well known for having different alcohol laws due to their Mormon-influenced government and regulations. This doesn’t mean that nightlife is subdued, but it is important to know the rules for the area so you’re better prepared for the experience. Alcohol pricing will also be higher on average, while drinks may not be quite as strong, resulting in more money spent overall.
Given this, there are actually many different great places to have a drink after a long day of skiing. Park City’s Main Street area is home to the majority of the top bars in the area, including Utah’s own whiskey distillery High West. The High West Saloon, the only ski-in/ski-out distillery in Amerca, offers a cozy atmosphere with loads of craft cocktails inspired by their multiple whiskey labels.
No Name Saloon is one of the most famous bars in town with three stories to party in. Each floor has a unique look and feel and gives patrons a great variety in not only seating, but also drink choices. There’s also a restaurant attached where you can order some delicious burgers and fries alongside your choice of local beer or signature cocktail.
For a more secluded and upscale atmosphere, we highly recommend visiting the Deer Valley area after a full day of shredding powder. The Troll Hallen Lounge at the Stein Eriksen has delectable small plates and drinks while the Goldener Hirsch Inn has an amazing apres ski fondue spread.
Those looking for a rollicking good time should check out the dance halls and party scenes at O.P. Rockwell, the Spur Bar & Grill or Prime Steakhouse Piano Bar.
Aspen has some pretty legendary apres ski locations. If you think fine wines, small plates, cheese and charcuterie boards and craft cocktails by a cozy fire in an upscale lounge are appealing, Aspen has plenty to choose from. You can also from some European-style apres ski ragers every now and then.
Aspen’s Cloud Nine has one of the most famous apres ski scenes in America. It’s the place to go for on-mountain bites and for rowdy Euro-style apres parties.
For another good European apres ski experience, check out the Little Nell at the base of Silver Queen Gondolas. They give a classic atmosphere with increasing fun throughout the night with live music, djs or sports on the lounge televisions. Limelight Lounge is on par with this apres ski style, where locals and visitors like to gather.
Aspen’s walkable downtown area makes it easy to barhop to more casual nighttime places like the pubs, breweries and craft cocktail bars. We recommend Ajax Tavern on Aspen Mountain or The Red Onion, which is one of Aspen’s oldest bars, established in 1892. They offer an authentic experience complete with a “shot ski” to share with friends.
For a more family-friendly atmosphere, go to Snowmass for Ullr Nights at Elk Camp. This tame party has nightly tubing and sledding after the slopes close to skiers, plus they serve delicious food and drink. This popular past-time located at Elk Camp has bonfires, games and live music for all to enjoy.
Summer
Best Weather: Draw

For Aspen, expect warmer temps in the summer which average 75°F for the high and 45°F for the low. There tends to be increased rain activity from July through August, but it doesn’t usually affect the whole day. Rain showers, a few thunderstorms and light mist are common, but will last a short while from day to day.
Park City averages a high of 78°F in the summertime and comes down to around 43-50*F at night, with the hottest temperatures being experienced in July. Summer is very comfortable and pretty dry.
There’s really not much else to say about summertime weather in either spot. The weather is beautiful and you absolutely can’t go wrong no matter which one you’re visiting.
Best Activities: Draw

Park City is like many Colorado towns in the summertime where the activities revolve around outdoor fun like hiking, biking, golfing, swimming and fishing. Water sports and river rafting are great pastimes, while hot air ballooning will be a more unique adventure for the family.
Several of Park City’s coaster and zipline parks are really popular in the summer. Incredible Zipline Adventure Tours will take you on a ride through the mountain ski trails while Utah Olympic Park Zipline will take you on a 40mph journey. Even more thrilling is the chance to ride Comet Bobsled, which was used in the 2002 Winter Olympics.
In fact, Olympic Park is Park City’s newest public area that offers summertime fun. While Olympic Park has been in operation since the 2002 Winter Olympics, it was recently opened to the public. Guests can not only use the bobsled track, but they can also zip on the Nordic ski jump, sail incredible tube slides and use the ropes courses set up on the mountain.

Aspen is a great place for walking and exploring the main town, but also provides lots of activities for groups and families to do outside. Horseback riding, fishing, hot balloon, or paragliding excursion to get the blood pumping, but hiking, biking and fishing are always the draw here.
In the summer, The Silver Queen and Elk Camp Gondolas will transport tourists up and down the wildflower covered mountain to complete various activities. Hiking enthusiasts should take the Maroon Bells trail, which takes hikers along the beautiful Maroon Creek Valley and lake. For a more iconic picture of Aspen, consider hiking The Ute Trail.
Snowmass Village recently expanded their bike park which resulted in 20 miles of trails for mountain bikers to trek. The Lost Forest at Snowmass is great for families and has ropes courses, climbing walls and an alpine coaster. There’s also different hiking paths and creeks for fishing here at the base of Elk Camp.
Best Events: Aspen

Aspen is an event haven, so we’ll touch on the most noteworthy ones. Winter X Games is one of the biggest events in Aspen. Professional skiers, snowboarders and snowmobilers are invited to participate in multiple events for the chance to win trophies, money and recognition.
Winterskol is another great event, serving as Aspen’s “toast to winter”. It seeks to showcase the town’s unique Nordic lifestyle with several events that have live music, competitions and fireworks. It takes place over one long January weekend to usher in the ski season.
Bud Light hosts several events at Snowmass, one of the most popular being their Bud Light Mountain Challenge. This competition is held over the course of six weeks with one event per week, crowning a winner at the end of all six challenges. The events vary from fat biking to axe throwing and even to snow golfing. The company also sponsors Spring Jam which is a series of concerts, parties, snow games, and competitions from March through April.
If you plan to be here in the summer, we suggest going to Aspen Music Festival. It is one of the most popular annual events and brings an average of over 100,000 visitors over the course of the season. The festival hosts 400 performances all summer and features local classical musicians, along with the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra and the Seraphic Fire Professional Choral Institute, among others.
Aspen Film Shortsfest takes place over the course of one week. Nationally and internationally recognized film makers, directors and actors are invited to celebrate the highly rated short films they’ve produced. The event always closes with an awards ceremony given to the best films, producers and talent.

Park City biggest event of the year is Sundance Film Festival, which is extremely well-known around the country by both fans and non-fans of the industry. It’s actually the largest film festival in the United States and brings in around 50,000 visitors to the Park City area in the month of January.
While Sundance is going to be the biggest event you’ll see in Park City, there are also a few more local events that have a tendency to draw visitors from around the country. Their summer concerts, like the Deer Valley Concert Series and the St. Regis Summer Concerts, host a vast array of different artists that have yet to be discovered and those who’ve already made a name for themselves.
In addition to these, the Tour of Utah (though it is currently suspended and possibly permanently canceled) is another large event specifically made for cyclists. Every August, Park City is host to cycling teams from all over the world who come for this competition. Teams compete in several different legs between the Canyons and Park City over the course of a week, with the winners awarded for several different races throughout the multi-day event.
The Verdict
The truth is that these two cities are unique yet so similar in their value of offerings that it’s really hard to choose between the two. Strictly going off of our conclusion, we gauge that Aspen is a better choice overall, but we are still partial to Park City for the good times had there. If you’re still have difficulty deciding which to pick for your next vacation, here’s a summary to wrap it up:
Choose Park City if you want a fun Western town with loads of history and a wide range of pricing options, lodging and dining. Park City has something to offer just about any budget, while also giving visitors a wide range of skiable terrain and multiple base areas to have fun in. The Deer Valley area alone can easily rival Aspen’s most luxurious areas, while Park City’s Main Street is a hard atmosphere to beat.
Choose Aspen if you want the feeling of a more exclusive experience and the choice between four completely different ski mountains. Downtown Aspen is a great walkable area that offers many different dining locations and apres ski enjoyment, while Snowmass Village is going to be a great choice for families. Overall, the environment in Aspen will be higher class with purpose-built environments that are a more modern and new.
If you’re still up in the air on which mountain town to hit next, take a look at our other similar resort guides: